THE latest Gallup data reveals a high desire for migration across the globe, with sub-Saharan Africa leading other regions. Around 37 percent of adults in the region, or more than one-third of the population, expressed a desire to leave their countries in 2023, driven largely by economic instability and ongoing security concerns. This figure has risen eight percentage points since 2011, making sub-Saharan Africa the region with the highest migration aspiration in the world.
Despite many African nations striving for economic reform and stability, the pressure from internal conflict, limited job prospects, and climate-related challenges pushes many residents to seek better opportunities elsewhere. The desire to leave remains above 50 percent in nine African nations, including Liberia, Ghana, Nigeria, and the Gambia, with these countries consistently ranking among the top 10 globally for migration aspirations.
Gallup’s annual global migration survey, which collected responses from 146,000 adults across 142 countries, highlights a global trend of increased migration aspirations. Worldwide, 16 percent of adults—or approximately 900 million people—said they would leave their home countries permanently if possible, up from a decade ago when this figure was between 12 percent and 15 percent. These high aspirations coincide with record migration levels in wealthy countries and increased internal displacement within African nations due to conflict and climate instability.
Migration aspirations in context: the role of economic and security challenges
For African nations, the disparity between economic opportunity and youth demographics is stark. While Africa has one of the world’s youngest populations, it also faces significant unemployment and underemployment, leaving many young people disillusioned. As a result, the continent has become a primary source of migration, with many citizens aspiring to reach Europe, North America, or wealthier African nations for better job prospects.
According to the United Nations, migration rates hit unprecedented levels in 2022, particularly in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. Yet, these rising migration flows aren’t limited to traditional migrant-sending regions like Africa and Latin America. In a surprising twist, countries historically known as migrant destinations, such as the United States and Canada, are seeing an increasing number of their own residents express a desire to move abroad.
North America still the top destination, but attractiveness wanes
Despite cooling enthusiasm toward the United States as a destination, it remains the most desired country for potential migrants globally. In 2023, around 18 percent of global respondents—equivalent to 170 million people—named the US as their preferred place to move. Canada ranked second, with 9 percent of potential migrants worldwide, or approximately 85 million people, hoping to relocate there.
However, data suggest potential migrants are increasingly aware of economic and political changes in North America, affecting its overall appeal. Nonetheless, both Canada and the US recorded some of the highest migration levels in 2023, reflecting a complex and persistent draw for those looking for new opportunities.
Implications for policy and society
Gallup’s data underscore that a large portion of people in sub-Saharan Africa view migration as a potential pathway to better lives, even if economic, political, and practical hurdles often prevent them from leaving. Gallup clarifies that migration desire doesn’t equate to migration intent; many who wish to leave may lack the resources or means to act on this desire.
For African nations facing ‘brain drain,’ understanding the root causes driving high migration aspirations is crucial. Additionally, countries in Europe and North America, typically the preferred destinations, must address the dual reality of both incoming migrants and citizens considering leaving.
As migration aspirations and flows increase, policymakers must adapt strategies that support sustainable development, improve local opportunities, and responsibly manage migration. This approach could address the root causes of migration, ultimately offering potential migrants a choice to stay or go, rather than a necessity to escape hardship.
